Democrats: Focus must be on real solutions

Sunday

Aug 31, 2008 at 12:01 AMAug 31, 2008 at 9:20 PM

With each party seeking to gain influence, rarely a day goes by without front-page coverage. Change, gas prices, the War on Terror — headlines used so often their meaning continues to diminish. What is really at stake with the upcoming election?

GEORGE JOSEPH

With each party seeking to gain influence, rarely a day goes by without front-page coverage. Change, gas prices, the War on Terror — headlines used so often their meaning continues to diminish. What is really at stake with the upcoming election?

Families, children, businesses – our American Dream. It is difficult to remember a time in recent history when challenges facing our nation didn’t seem to be jeopardizing the core values on which our country was founded. Deciding who we need to lead that change will be critical as we build the foundation that will shape and solidify the future of our country from the national level to our hometown communities.

Many try to paint a picture of two parties at odds, unable to build a consensus on what needs to happen. Change needs to happen. It’s no secret. A trip down the supermarket aisle or a trip across town provides a quick dose of reality. This economy hurts our families, our businesses and our communities. Both parties agree on that, but our differences remain in the solution. What steps are needed to build our road map
out of this economic climate and whom we will entrust to take the wheel and lead us?

Although a Republican has held the presidency, we must remember that Congress has been under Democratic control. Although change has been their buzzword for the public eye, we have seen little action. No offshore drilling equals dependence on foreign oil. We all recognize this is not a long-term solution, but we know that something must be done now. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi disagrees.

On the state level, control of the state Senate is teetering for the Republicans. If the Democrats are successful, all three governing bodies — from governor, to the Assembly, to the Senate — would fall under Democratic control, with all three leaders living in New York City. This would be a disservice to New York state, as debate and the free flow of ideas would be stifled. This could have drastic effects upon our region.

The Republican Party, under the leadership of presidential candidate John McCain, represents a broad array of viewpoints and continues to believe in a smaller, less intrusive government. We have a plan, one that includes short-term oil exploration and drilling, as well as alternative energy development. We believe that the economy can be turned around, and will work to move our country forward. Unlike the Democratic Convention, whose focus is on party unity, the Republican Convention will focus on real solutions.

Finally, it is exciting to be part of a congressional campaign with a candidate that is an independent businessman who can bring accountability to Washington and the 24th Congressional District. Richard Hanna brings years of business experience, and is not beholden to party leadership. That is real change. I challenge you, more than ever before, to make an informed election decision this year. Don’t just read the paper – make phone calls – contact your legislative representative. Demand to know their viewpoints and make a decision based on performance and results.